We often contemplate over the best mattress, the perfect pillows or even the softest sheets that make our rooms feel cozier. What we don’t consider is the bed frame, which essentially the base that holds our mattress, pillows and covers all together. So while choosing the right mattress is important, what’s more essential is ensuring that the base of your bed, which is your bed frame, provides the right amount of support, stability and a strong foundation.
Here’s why it’s important to choose the right bed frame for your new mattress:
1. Provides A Stable Foundation
A bed frame is what holds both you and your mattress up safely. So a solid bed frame that is made of quality material can provide the perfect stability and ample support that you need.
2. Protects Your Mattress
Your bed frame’s main function is to support your mattress so you can have restful sleep. Without the right bed frame, you risk shortening the lifespan of your mattress, creating an imbalance in your mattress or saggy spots.
3. Promotes Healthy Sleep
A little known fact about your bed frame is that it helps to elevate your sleeping position so it’s easier for you to get in and out of bed. Bed frames also adds the necessary support to your sleep and reduces unnecessary motion that causes unrestful sleep.
Now that we’ve established why the bed frame is essential to a goodnight’s sleep, here’s how to choose the right bed frame for you.
1. Determine the size of your mattress
If you already have a mattress that you love, choosing a bed frame to support it should be much easier. Make sure to measure your mattress properly and get a bed frame that fits perfectly to your mattress.
2. Consider the height of your bed frame
The height of your bed frame depends greatly on the height of your mattress. If you prefer to be lower to the ground, a platform bed frame may work better for you, but if you’re looking for height, then you’ll need a bed frame that’s higher.
If you have restricted mobility, a bed frame that’s easy to climb in to and out of would definitely be better.
3. The unseen slats
If you choose to keep your foundation, make sure that the slats are evenly spaced, with no more space than the width of a single slat between the pieces. Furthermore, the slats should be fixed to the foundation to prevent movement when the bed is in use. You could also put a layer of fabric between the underside of the mattress and the slats. This will prevent issues with scuffing that may occur when the mattress is in direct contact with the slats.
It is also important to check that the base has a centre rail running head to foot and a centre leg in the middle of the base touching the floor to avoid the mattress dipping in the middle when weight is applied.
4. The right platform
There are 2 types of platforms- the divan and Sealy box spring. The standard divan would have a wooden base wrapped in fabric, PU or leather to support your mattress, while Sealy patented box springs are built to prolong the lifespan of your mattress.
Benefits of Sealy’s box spring bed frames:
- Strong and durable so there’s better support for your mattress
- Absorbs daily shocks and stresses from your mattress and provides you with better sleep
So how do I choose from all the available bed frames? Let’s weigh their pros and cons.
Divan
Modern and minimal yet provides a sturdy base for your mattress. With the divan, you can place your mattress directly on top of the base.. Unfortunately, platform bed frames can come across as being too low to the ground for some.
Metal Bed frame
Durable and solid. They come in a variety of styles from basic to ornate. Stainless steel and brass are common materials for metal bed frames. They are supportive and can hold a heavier mattress with no problems. Sadly that can be a problem, as the weight will cause it to be harder to move.
Adjustable Bed frames
Adjustable bed frames are controlled with a remote to adjust into different positions. It’s a great option for those with mobility issues or those who experience pain when they sleep and need to change their position throughout the night. Just get a compatible mattress for your adjustable bed frame and you’re set! While the adjustable bed frames are ideal, it comes with a hefty pricetag.
Four-Poster or Canopy Bed frames
This is a popular style in large primary bedrooms, where space is abundant. These bed frames often have a grand, regal look. Although similar, canopy bed frames have four posters that connect and form a frame at the top. Unfortunately, these bed frames are much larger, harder to move and require higher ceilings to fit into.
Bunk Bed frames
Bunk bed frames are fun, space-saving options. With bunk bed frames, you’re able to save space in a room yet keep it fun for the kids, siblings, guests, and sleepovers. Bunks are larger than your usual and will require climbing in and out of bed, often.
Upholstered Bed frames
Upholstered bed frames are wrapped in fabric to give a soft and cozy look. They come in many different types of fabric, and range in style from simple, streamlined looks to more decorative designs with button studs and embroidery. While they are more comfortable and soft, you’ll need to vacuum them often to keep it clean.
Storage Bed frames
Storage bed frames include built-in storage such as cabinets, drawers, and shelves. These take up more space but provide excellent storage nooks for books, clothing, and other belongings. Storage bed frames may also come with a higher price tag.
Wooden Bed frames
There are different types of wooden bed frames, many of which have a soft, traditional look. Some are large and heavy, but they are also very sturdy. Wooden bed frames are easier to find and will match your existing furniture.
A bed frame is so much more than just a piece of decoration in your room. There are many factors to consider before buying one, so know what your priority is when it comes to your sleep. Are you looking for comfort, support or style? That would be the start to your bed frame searching journey!
Remember, finding the perfect bed frame is half the battle won to a perfect night’s sleep!
